‘Dancing Star’, the cinematic presentation influenced by popular television programme, ‘Sirasa Dancing Star’ contest is now being screened at Regal cinema-Colombo and other CEL circuit cinemas around the country.

Directed by Susara Dinal, the head of Sirasa TV, the movie is produced by Sirasa Movies for MTV Network (Pvt) Ltd, marking the maiden entrance of a television station to the silver screen. The film with its commercial presentation introduces a number of talented newcomers including Shiroshi Romeshika, (Sirasa Dancing Star winner), Dushyanth Weeraman together with a large number of veterans like Malani Fonseka, Sanath Gunathilake, Ravindra Randeniya, Sabeetha Perera and Rosi Senanayake.

The film filled with glamour and action revolves around Shiroshi, a phenomenally talented dancer who emerges out of the squalor of an impoverished urban neighbourhood through her performances with her group of friends. But her journey from the backwaters to the glitz and glamour of stardom, takes many a twist and turn.

Her unexpected feelings for fellow dancer and singer Dushyanth remains just that; unexpressed. But fate would have it that her talent is spotted by Mr. Dunuwila, played by Raveendra Randeniya who sees immense potential in this young performer quite by accident. While Dushyanth is left behind, Shiroshi is swept up into a life of glamour.

This meeting introduces young Shiroshi to a whole new world of music, dancing, new friends and even romance. Subsequently the story spirals into a battle for love, and an opportunity to prove it. Roshan Ranawana, a young dancer pairs up with Shiroshi in her performance only to fall head over heels in love, despite the intentions of competitor Nilanthi Dias who has eyes only for Roshan.

In his attempt to groom Shiroshi into stardom, Ravindra experiences the full force of social stigmas of a squint eyed look at this middle aged man and his platonic love for a young dancer. His wife (played by Malani) fumbles as she tries to understand her husband’s intentions.

Speaking about the maiden directorial effort, Susara Dinal said that the film has proved the myth that Sri Lankan actors cannot dance and displays the enormous talent they have. “To survive whatever the type of cinema, the country should have a successful commercial filmmaking. And this is an effort toward that goal,” Dinal said about the country’s cinema industry.

The film also stars Srilal Ahangama, Nilanthi Dias, Lakshman Mendis, Pubudu Chathuranga, Hashini Gonagala, Vishaka Siriwardena and Sarath Kothalawala. In the production team of ‘Dancing Star’, Aruna Jayawardane co-directed, Jeewantha Devapriya edited and Bathiya and Santhush wrote the musical score.

By Susitha R. Fernando
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